Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch both offer unique features to consider. The CAP Anniversary is praised for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes, thanks to its novel CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem. It is categorized as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', making it a popular choice for those seeking a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Spring Breeze from Outemu doesn't have any standout features mentioned. However, it is important to note that it is categorized as a clicky switch, providing users with tactile feedback and audible clicks. If you prefer a more tactile typing experience, the Spring Breeze may be the better choice for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CAP Anniversary utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. In contrast, the Outemu Spring Breeze opts for a nylon top housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic material. While the CAP Anniversary's top housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting with its translucency, the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing creates a classic typing experience with its rounder sound.
Both the CAP Anniversary and the Spring Breeze feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile through sound absorption. As a result, the bottom housing of each switch imparts a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper top housing materials. While both switches use a softer plastic material for their bottom housings, the subtle differences in construction may affect the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the choice of housing materials for the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Outemu Spring Breeze plays a significant role in shaping the typing experience. The split between the stiffer polycarbonate top housing and the softer nylon bottom housing in the CAP Anniversary results in a balance between sharpness and depth in sound profile. Conversely, the consistent use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of the Spring Breeze emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile throughout the typing process. Ultimately, while the two switches may offer similar results in terms of sound absorption and typing experience, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing will shape the overall sound profile of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, there are noticeable differences that cater to different preferences. The CAP Anniversary has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Spring Breeze has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. The weight of a switch is important as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Some may appreciate the lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel for a more satisfying keystroke. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches offer users the option to choose based on their preferred typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar tactile feel and feedback when typing on either of these switches. The 4 mm travel distance allows for a satisfying keypress experience without requiring excessive force to actuate the switch. This commonality between the two switches ensures that users will receive consistent performance in terms of travel distance, making them both reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
The Outemu Spring Breeze comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, the CAP Anniversary is known for its exceptionally smooth keystrokes and stability due to its unique CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design. In terms of sound, the CAP Anniversary is known for smoothness, while the sound characteristics of the Spring Breeze are unknown. When it comes to feel, the CAP Anniversary offers a variety of descriptors such as snappy, creamy, and polished, providing a responsive and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Spring Breeze switch is unspecified.
As a newcomer, if you are looking for a switch that prioritizes smoothness and stability in your typing experience, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would be a solid choice. However, if sound and feel are not as crucial factors in your decision-making process, both switches would likely yield similar results in terms of performance. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you'll want to choose the CAP Anniversary if you prioritize smoothness and stability in your typing experience. The CAP Anniversary's innovative CAP structure and aerodynamic stem design result in exceptionally smooth keystrokes with minimal wobble. Additionally, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, the CAP Anniversary would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams and enjoy the tactile feedback of clicky switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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